Slate Creek Preserve

A group of local landowners and lodge operators have set aside 3,000 acres as a private preserve. The purpose of the preserve is to protect the watershed, plants, and animals of a valley called the Vega, one of several valleys in the area.

The unique ecosystem of limestone karst, which borders the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve [1], teems with life. Mahogany, Santa Maria, ceiba, cedar, and cohune palms tower above.

Orchids, ferns, and bromeliads are common. Birds such as the aracari, emerald toucanet, keel-billed toucan, keel-billed motmot, king vulture, and various parrots and hummingbirds are to be found here. Pumas, ocelots, coatis, pacas, and anteaters roam the forests.